The journey toward geula (redemption) has always been filled with challenges, complexities, and moments of doubt. This reality is powerfully illustrated in the transition between Parshat Shemot and Parshat Va’era, where we see the tension between human expectations of immediate salvation and the Divine plan that unfolds over time.
At the end of Parshat Shemot, Moshe does exactly what Hashem commands him: he approaches Pharaoh and demands, “Let My people go.” Instead of liberation, however, the result is a harsh backlash. Pharaoh increases the workload of Bnei Yisrael, making their lives even more bitter. Moshe himself is shaken. He turns to Hashem and cries out: “Why have You done evil to this people? Why have You sent me?” (Shemot 5:22). Moshe’s question is one we can all relate to: If this is the redemption, why does it feel like things are only getting worse?
Hashem’s response in the opening of Parshat Va’era is both a reassurance and a reframing of perspective. Hashem reminds Moshe of His covenant with the Avot (Patriarchs) and introduces Himself as Hashem, the name associated with mercy and the fulfillment of promises. He outlines the broader vision of geula in four stages: “I will take you out… I will save you… I will redeem you… I will take you as My nation” (Shemot 6:6-7). Hashem is essentially telling Moshe: Redemption is a process. It will not be immediate or simple, but it will ultimately be complete and transformative.
This lesson is deeply relevant to us today. As we yearn for geula—both personally and collectively—we often find ourselves facing setbacks and moments of doubt. We expect instant solutions, but instead, we encounter delays, struggles, and a reality that seems far from ideal. Just like Moshe and Bnei Yisrael, we might find ourselves asking: “Why is it taking so long? Why do things seem to be getting harder?”
The story of Yetziat Mitzrayim teaches us to trust in Hashem’s plan, even when it’s hard to see the full picture. Redemption is not a straight line; it is a journey with twists and turns, where every step—even the painful ones—contributes to the ultimate goal. Hashem’s command to Moshe to return to Pharaoh, despite the initial failure, reminds us that persistence and faith are key components of geula.
On a deeper level, Hashem’s response also highlights the importance of seeing the bigger picture. Moshe was focused on the immediate suffering of the people, but Hashem was guiding the process toward an everlasting redemption that would culminate in the creation of a covenantal relationship between Him and His nation. Similarly, our challenges today are not random—they are part of a Divine plan that is leading us toward a greater purpose, even if we can’t yet see it.
May we learn from Moshe’s perseverance and Hashem’s reassurance to hold on to our faith in the process of geula. And may we merit to see the final redemption speedily in our days, in all its complexity and ultimate beauty.
Shabbat Shalom.
Yiska Guberman and the JET Team
